Apprentices from EKC Training have celebrated their achievements in style, at the 2026 Kent and Medway Apprentice Graduation Ceremony, held at Rochester Cathedral.
This event marks the successful completion of their Apprenticeships across a range of subjects, and brings each Apprentice together with their families, friends, employer and East Kent Colleges Group staff to reward their dedication to their development.
Gallia Yates graduated today as she completed her Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship. She has been working at Pilgrim’s Way Primary School during her qualification.
Speaking about her overall experience on her Apprenticeship, she said:
“I’ve loved learning about different ways of helping young people with their learning, with behaviour issues, but also how my confidence has grown throughout the course.
“To build my skills in an employer setting was massive because I could see myself growing each step of the way as I learnt different skills.”
Gallia is now looking to continue her learning with a higher-level Apprenticeship.
Another successful graduate was George Chandler who completed his Level 3 Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship with EKC Training, completing his off-the-job training at EKC Folkestone College.
Working on-site with Croudace Homes, George said the best thing about his Apprenticeship was being supported to push himself further.
“I want to progress through the ranks, becoming an assistant manager, and then becoming a site manager further down the line.
“I’m now doing my Level 4 Apprenticeship to become a Senior Site Manager in the future with Croudace Homes.”
Harry was another Apprentice celebrating his achievements today, as he has now completed his Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Apprenticeship, with Fairway Heating.
“It feels amazing to finally complete my Apprenticeship. It’s a four-year course, so it’s nice to finish and it was really worth it.” said Harry.
For him, an Apprenticeship provided the perfect foundation to learn skills, gain an entrepreneurial spirit, and start his own business.
“My favourite thing I learnt during my apprenticeship was all the business side of things, and learning how an actual business runs.
“I’ve actually now gone out on my own since January, which is going well, and I’m currently growing and expanding the company.
“It really was an amazing experience.”
Also walking the stage at Rochester Cathedral today were Level 3 HR Support Apprentices, Laura Baker and Lillie Barber.
Laura works for Dover College, an independent private school in the coastal town, and said they have been very supportive throughout her qualification.
She said: “My Apprenticeship has helped me tremendously to the point that my employer is even encouraging and supporting me to enrol in a Level 5 Apprenticeship next year.
“It was really eye-opening, gave me knowledge, and was very supportive.”
Lillie, who studied alongside Laura during their Apprenticeships, works for East Kent Colleges Group as a People Services Assistant.
Speaking about her experience, she said: “While there were tough times during my Apprenticeship, I found it overall a great experience, and I learnt a lot of things that I could apply directly in my role.
“It’s really helped me learn a lot about HR, and expand my knowledge.
“Now that I have the qualification, I can go on and get my Level 5, and then my Level 7.”
Lillie is set to continue her role in East Kent Colleges Group, as a valuable member of the team.
As a key sponsor of the event and one of the largest Apprenticeship providers in the county, EKC Training continues to play a key role in supporting both Apprentices and employers.
We’re proud to highlight the importance of Apprenticeships in developing skilled professionals across the region.
Rhona Williams, who is the Principal of EKC Training, said: “Celebrating our apprentices and everything they have achieved is always such a special moment. At East Kent Colleges Group, we see first-hand how apprenticeships can change lives, helping people grow in confidence, discover their strengths and build rewarding careers.
“The Kent and Medway Apprenticeship Graduation is a wonderful opportunity to recognise that hard work and ambition.
“I’m incredibly proud of our apprentices and grateful to the employers who create and support these opportunities.
“I would encourage employers across Kent and Medway to continue investing in apprenticeships and giving more people the chance to learn, develop and succeed.”
A big thank you to all of our Employers who supported today’s Apprentices, including:
- Canterbury Christ Church University
- Caspers Nursery, Capel
- Croudace Homes
- Dover College
- Eurotunnel
- Exclusive Household Staff
- Fairway Heating
- East Kent Colleges Group
- Fledgelings Nursery, Ramsgate
- Laser Mechanical & Electrical
- Pilgrim’s Way Primary School
- Rising Stars Nursery, Sittingbourne
Apprenticeships continue to play a vital role in addressing skills gaps and supporting business growth across the region, and there’s never been a better time to get involved.
For those considering an apprenticeship, it offers the opportunity to gain valuable experience while earning a salary and working towards a recognised qualification. Apprentices develop industry-specific skills, build professional networks, and improve their career prospects.
For employers, they provide a cost-effective way to develop loyal, skilled staff, with government funding available to cover training costs, and exemptions such as no National Insurance contributions for younger apprentices.
Learn more about our Apprenticeships today and get started on the next step in your journey.
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